Ford previously had to stock multiple
SKUs for SYNC hardware modules dependent on vehicle model, trim
level, and options installed. However, thanks to the help of new
Wi-Fi capabilities, Ford has designed a single SYNC hardware module
that can be reprogrammed as the vehicle is making its way down the
assembly line.

It simple terms, Ford says that the
vehicle sends
its unique VIN wirelessly to an assembly line router. The router
then communicates with a central software server which stores the
MyFord Touch software necessary for that particular vehicle. The
sever then sends the appropriate firmware (as much as 300MB) back to
the router and down to the vehicle which programs the SYNC hardware
module.

As a result, Ford says that it was able
to "eliminate around 90 unique part numbers, each of which would
have to be updated every time a change is made." In addition,
cost savings are realized because Ford no longer has to assemble,
stock, or store these additional parts thanks to the reprogrammable
SYNC hardware module.

The Oakville, Ontario assembly plant,
which produces the Ford Edge and the Lincoln MKX, will be the first
of Ford's facilities to implement Wi-Fi installation of MyFord Touch
software.

"Employees at the Oakville
assembly plant helped us tremendously in getting the Wi-Fi process to
work, and work perfectly,” said Sukhwinder Wadhwa, SYNC global
platform manager. “Turning an assembly plant – with steel beams
everywhere and high-voltage cabling throughout; everything you could
imagine that would interfere with a radio signal – into an access
point that would achieve 100 percent success was a huge challenge."

Once everything is up and running with
Wi-Fi software installations on the Edge/MKX assembly lines, Ford
will begin introducing the process to the production of the 2011
Ford Explorer and the 2012
Ford Focus.

While it's great to see Wi-Fi being
used to help simplify the assembly process of vehicle, we can't help
but wonder how easy it would be to “reprogram” the SYNC hardware
module once the vehicle leaves the dealer lot and makes its way to
the customer's driveway.